Cape Town - Picture a nearly 1km by 10m braai fire in the veld, with a grid set every 5m for the meat. As the gun fires, everyone lights their section of the pyre at the same moment.
This is the Black Oystercatcher 1km Heritage Day Braai, which has become an annual event, a short distance from the historical village of Elim in the southern Cape.
But it is much more than just an opportunity to take part in our national pastime; it is aimed at clearing the countryside of alien bush, which is then used to build the fire.
Proceeds go towards the Nuwejaars Wetland Protected Environment, which has been responsible for introducing hippo and buffalo into the area, and hosting the quagga breeding project.
The Black Oystercatcher family-run wine farm is part of this environmental initiative, and next year they hope to reach the goal of a 1km long fire.
How I wished I could have been there last year, but a previous commitment made it impossible.
I learnt about this unusual event as I tucked into a delicious leek and potato soup at the Black Oystercatcher restaurant. A huge fire kept the cold at bay, while the food warmed the innards.
The attractive restaurant and cellar are housed in a converted shed on the farm, which offers distinctive wines from grapes grown in their 18ha vineyard.
The menu is based on what is on offer seasonally.
Recently, four elegant self-catering cottages in converted workers’ cottages were opened. These have views over the veld, fynbos and nearby hills.
Interestingly, the owners are planting a vegetable garden in front of the cottages and, once established, guests will be able to pick their own produce, fresh from the land.
Cycling routes, which begin at the Black Oystercatcher and cover varying terrain, far and wide, are popular.
These range from 35.97km of easy gravel route, through average (49.87km) to two advanced routes of 84.36km and 95.30km.
For details, call 028 482 1618 or see www.blackoystercatcher.co.za - Sunday Tribune